Arco della Pace — Attraction in Milan

Standing about 25 meters tall and 24 meters wide, this is a monumental Neoclassical triumphal arch located at the edge of Parco Sempione. It was designed by Luigi Cagnola and construction began in 1807 under Napoleon's rule, originally intended as the Arco delle Vittorie to celebrate his military victories. After Napoleon’s fall in 1814, construction halted. It resumed in 1826 under Emperor Francis I of Austria, who rededicated it to the peace established by the Congress of Vienna. The arch was completed in 1838 and later came to symbolize Italian unification, notably when Napoleon III and Victor Emmanuel II passed through it in 1859 after the Battle of Magenta. Topping the arch is the bronze Sestiga della Pace, a six-horse chariot driven by the goddess Minerva, sculpted by Abbondio Sangiorgio. The corners feature Victory figures with animals by Giovanni Putti. Reliefs and engravings on the arch and columns represent Lombardy’s four great rivers: Po, Ticino, Adige, and...

I stumbled upon Arco della Pace after wandering out of Parco Sempione, and wow—what a majestic surprise. You don't really expect to find something this grand just sitting there, wide open, like it's not even trying to impress you… but it does anyway.

The symmetry is stunning. The marble glows in the late afternoon light, and the bronze horses galloping up top give it this quiet drama, like they’re frozen mid-conquest. I sat at the base for a good half hour, just people-watching—joggers, kids on scooters, couples on benches, locals walking their dogs like it's just another day with a literal triumphal arch in their backyard. Classic Milan.

It’s not overcrowded like the Duomo, and there’s something serene about it, especially with the view straight down Corso Sempione. A bottle of San Pellegrino, a book, and this view = perfect Milan moment.

Highly recommend coming here during golden hour. It feels like a living painting. And yes, your camera will...

Arco della Pace (Arch of Peace) is one of Milan’s most striking landmarks — often overlooked, but definitely worth the visit. Located at the edge of Parco Sempione, it’s a beautiful and peaceful spot to unwind, especially at sunset when the light hits the arch just right.

This grand neoclassical arch has a fascinating history. It was originally commissioned by Napoleon in the early 1800s to celebrate his victories and was meant to be the entrance to Milan from Paris. However, after Napoleon’s fall, the arch was completed under Austrian rule and rededicated to peace — hence the name.

The detailed carvings, bronze statues, and elegant columns make it a great place for history buffs and photographers alike. There are plenty of benches and cafés nearby, making it ideal for a relaxed afternoon.

Tip: Visit in the evening when locals gather in the area — it has a lively yet laid-back atmosphere and is a great contrast to the more touristy parts...